Vol. 429 No. 3
162 Mr. Harte asked the Minister for the Marine if, in the context of the coastal protection programme, he will assist in the repair of the damage done to the embankment at Lower Cairn, Ramelton, County Donegal, which has been causing sea water to flood about 50 acres of highly arable land twice each day; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Primary responsibility for coastal protection rests with local coastal authorities. It is the policy of the Department of the Marine to facilitate the implementation of permanent protection schemes, where warranted, to prevent progressive erosion by the sea. Of course, owners of private property have the major role in protecting their own property.
In formulating the coast protection programme for Structural Funds all local coastal authorities were contacted and requested to identify priorities for coast protection projects which they considered would be warranted and feasible and for which they would be prepared to make funds available. Donegal County Council in their submission in respect of this programme have listed Lower Cairn, Ramelton among their priorities where works will be undertaken should sufficient funds become available. Pending finalisation of this programme and clarification of funding it is difficult for me to say at this stage whether or not funds from central sources will be made available to assist the undertaking of repairs at the location mentioned.
